The perfect engagement photos start with the perfect backdrop. And since you are lovely, I’m going to share with you, my favorite locations so you can have beautiful pictures. Follow me northeast from Phoenix to the Apache Trail where I’ll show you an incredible desert landscape and a stunning location for engagement photos at sunset with a majestic view of the Superstition Mountains in Arizona. And if you let us take you here, we will create memorable images for you too that are as good, if not better than these!

Our journey begins at the Superstition Mountain Museum where, with a little permission, the owners allowed us to use their property for these engagement photos. From there, I will take you to Canyon Lake, which is just an incredible place. There are many more photos to be made at this spot in Arizona. The final location of your engagement session is a secret place at the top of the Apache Trail overlooking the desert valley below. It is here that I first camped in 2015 during an adventure trip and it is here that I have lots of great memories. I am jubilant to share this place with you in hopes that you build your memories here too.

My goal and my purpose are to capture beautiful memories for you of your relationship, preserving those memories in time forever. Maybe that involves exploring a unique place like this here. Or perhaps we document you do something that you guys love to do together. Let’s create something unique, something that defines your relationship. 🙂 Get in touch and let’s develop a relationship and come up with an idea that fits you two perfectly.

When Kristin and Paul moved to the South from Scottsdale, Arizona it was in search of that fairy tale life. Something you would find in a passage from a Nicholas Sparks’ novel. What better way to channel that romance than to have engagement photos made at the picturesque, Middleton Place.

A quiet walk through Middleton Place will give you a glimpse of the south in its purest form. Throughout its maze of pathways and trails, Middleton Place offers explorers wildlife to view, live oak trees to rest under, and a rich history to learn. Photo by Philip Casey.
Explore The South Flanker House at Middleton Place. This house is the only remaining structure after the Middleton residence was burned by Union Troops in 1865. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
These local turtles are sunbathing in the Reflection Pool at Middleton Place. Photo by Philip Casey.
A view of Cypress Lake at Middleton Place. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
An alligator visits the shores of the Mill Pond at Middleton Place. Photo by Philip Casey.
Spanish moss drapes the live oak trees found at Middleton Place. Photo by Philip Casey.
Kristin & Paul snuggle during a quiet walk through around Cypress Lake at Middleton Place. Photo by Philip Casey.
Cypress Lake reflects the love that Kristin & Paul share for each other. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Kristin & Paul have been known each other for 10 years. Their friendship is conveyed in the images of their engagement session. Ashley River, Middleton Place, Charleston, SC. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Kissing is a sign of a healthy relationship. Kristin and Paul exchange a sweet kiss at the Octagonal Sunken Garden at the Middleton Place in Charleston, South Carolina. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
The late afternoon sun illuminates Middleton Place’s Reflection Pool on a warm Spring evening in Charleston, SC. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
It was obvious by the way they looked at each other they are in love. At one point Kristin & Paul strolled off to a spot under this Oak tree beyond Rice Mill Pond at Middleton Place. Even though they are far away you can imagine the way they are looking at each other. Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.
Photo by Philip Casey.

Circa 1798, The Gadsden House is a grand Federal style Charleston manor, listed on the National Historic Register and celebrated as one of the top 10 historic properties to save and restore in Charleston. After a painstaking renovation, The Gadsden House serves as a private event venue available to for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. This wedding venue in Charleston is perfect for wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions from 50-400 guests.

Stephanie and Jeremy were forced to reschedule their wedding from last October when hurricane Matthew decided to pay Charleston a visit. It was very difficult to go through the heartbreak of having to reschedule everything for their wedding. But Stephaine and Jeremy’s patience and flexibility were rewarded with this alternative and unbelievably gorgeous wedding day.

My favorite aspect of their wedding is the first look photos in front of Zero George, which is right near the Gadsden House wedding venue. I love how bright, vibrant, and warm the entire wedding was. Comment your thoughts of this Charleston wedding!

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Photo by Alex Holt.

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Alex Holt

Photo by Alex Holt.

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

Gadsden House Weddings - Photo by Philip Casey

The End

A special shout out to the wedding vendors that made this Charleston wedding possible:

I sat at a table across from Ruben and Christina; their own hands, gently and lovingly holding the others. They reminisced, as I asked them to recall how they got together. During a season of heartbreak and difficulty, they found each other. And when they did, they both knew they were meant to be together. Christina said, they just, “clicked.” She had been in previous relationships and always found herself wanting to find time for herself. But when Ruben came into the picture, she couldn’t stop from wanting to always be with him. This was a major shift for her. When you’re with the right person, you just know. Since then, they have been inseparable. Some may call this being soulmates.

Ruben–the awesome guy that he is–wanted a perfect proposal for his perfect girl. He searched online for Charleston wedding photographers, found my portfolio, loved it, and called me a few days after Christmas. He was so excited about proposing to Christina and he wanted me to capture their engagement. I said yes (to photographing it, haha!) He planned everything ahead of time: obtained approval from her father, prepared all plans and reservations in Charleston, and somehow managed to kept it all a secret. Christina had no idea he was planning on proposing. It’s obvious in the photos how excited she was! After he proposed, I continued their Charleston engagement photos around White Point Garden, The Battery, East Bay Street, and East Bay Meeting House.

I love the engagement photos that we created. These two look and act natural together; like true best friends. I love seeing that. I think one very important key to a successful marriage is friendship. You have to be best friends with each other if your relationship is going to endure the test of time. I encourage all of you to make your friendship a top priority! Be there for one another emotionally, physically, spiritually; serve one another. Put your future spouse’s wants and needs above your own. Do this and you’ll be on your way to lifelong friendship and marriage. Someone I know once said, “I have never seen two people who continually serve and care for each other, get divorced.” I hope this is an encouragement for you all. I wish you the best on your journey! Now for the photos…

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day…unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.”

When Georgia’s grandfather officiated her wedding at the Francis Marion in December 2016, she couldn’t have known that this day would be the last day she would spend with him. Only a month after the wedding, he would be gone forever, but he would never be forgotten. The sadness of his passing weighs heavily on everyone’s heart. But there is rejoicing in the memories of their time with him. Georgia feels overwhelming blessed that she had the privilege of her grandfather officiating her wedding in Charleston. And, how priceless it is that she has these wonderful photos of him. We have photos of him officiating the ceremony, we have candid photos of him throughout the day, we have photos of him dancing with Georgia, etc. These photos are irreplaceable. While memories fade as years go by, moments captured in photographs can last forever. Helping you to create these types of memories are the very reason we are wedding photographers here in Charleston. We get the pleasure of capturing these very special moments in your life. Moments that you only have one chance to capture. After the wedding day is over, you have your memories and your photographs. Your photographs have a special ability to allow you to relive times that have passed. Wedding photography is of the highest importance for this reason. We at Philip Casey Photography know this and we feel the weight and responsibility of doing the best job possible.

The Wedding: Francis Marion Hotel, Charleston, SC

For their special day, Georgia and Carlos chose the Francis Marion Hotel as the main stage for their wedding. The Francis Marion hosted the wedding ceremony and the reception. Having chosen a December wedding, it was important that their friends and family members wouldn’t have to travel from location to location in the cold. The Francis Marion Hotel Colonial Ballroom provided a space that could first be used for the ceremony and then easily flipped for the reception. None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for the wonderful wedding vendors of Gillian and her team at the Francis Marion, Paper Dolls Hair & Makeup, a tasty cake by Sablee, music by Nice Entertainment, Florals from Whole Foods, and photography by Philip Casey. Georgia and Carlos were ever so happy with their Charleston wedding. Follow along below as we walk you through their very special day.

-Philip

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

Francis Marion Hotel Wedding - Photo by Philip Casey

The End

A special shout out to the awesome vendors that made this wedding possible: